Columbia, SC (WLTX) - Columbia police are searching for suspects they say swindled an elderly woman out of $17,000.

Officers say the crime took place on May 24, 2011 as the victim was leaving the K-Mart at 4400 Fort Jackson Boulevard.

According to officers, a male suspect approached the woman as she was leaving the store. Police say he showed her a bag with what appeared to be money inside, claiming that the cash had fallen off a truck.

Police say he told the victim that he would split the money with the her and a female suspect who was also at the scene. However, the man said that he would need $17,000 to pay the taxes before the deal could happen.

The victim then drove the female suspect to the Palmetto Citizens Credit Union at 3122 Millwood Avenue and withdrew the $17,000 from her own account.

The victim and female suspect then drove back to the K-Mart parking lot, where they were supposed to meet the male suspect. The female suspect left with the victim's money, saying she was going to find the male suspect, but never returned.

Anyone with information should call Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC, or e-mail a tip in to Crimestoppers of the Midlands. You can also text information in by texting "TIPSC" plus your message to CRIMES (274637). Either way you choose, your identity will remain anonymous, and you could be eligible for a cash reward.

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